Stockbridge Valley Central School graduates 42

MUNNSVILLE >> Forty-two students gathered in the district auditorium at Stockbridge Valley Central School Friday night for the school's 85th commencement ceremony.

In preparation for the event, seniors began lining up at 6:15 p.m. for the 7 p.m. ceremony.

Among them was graduating senior Brice Eaton of Pratts Hollow, who has plans to work this summer and then join the United States Army. Eaton said that he was excited to get on with his life.

Another senior, Ashley O'Herien of Munnsville, studied equine science at Madison-Oneida BOCES. She plans to work this summer and begin studies at Morrisville State College sometime next year in the same field to further her education.

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Prior to the ceremony, district Superintendent Patrick Curtin said the students were great group.

Later, he told the graduates, "Cherish this milestone...we love you...Make us proud with all your future accomplishments."

In speeches through the evening, following through on goals was a common theme.

In a class address, Senior Slass President Alyson Wilson charged the upcoming class to follow their hearts through their senior year and beyond.

Salutatorian Matthew Papa asked his classmates to continually follow through on plans throughout their life, while Valedictorian Tim Meeker said to, "never give up on anything you do."

School Principal Mary Anne Iritz reminded the graduates that each year of school, the graduates have increased in confidence and the ability to succeed in the future, whether they are going to college or entering the workforce.

Guest speaker was Stephanie Johnson, a member of the Class of 2001, who went on to earn a Ph.D in biology.

"It's OK to doubt, but it's not OK to dwell," Johnson told the graduates about how to deal with situations they'll encounter. "Use your past experiences to help guide the future."

Also, Johnson challenged the graduates to, "leave the world a better place."